DAYTON– Congressman Mike Turner (R-OH) told more than 100 Dayton business, veteran, and community leaders today that, for Ohio’s economy to succeed, America must invest in its status as a global leader.

“U.S. foreign assistance is the right thing to do,” said Rep. Mike Turner (R-OH). “It’s making certain that we are present in the dialogue of important ideas of democratic institutions and human dignity. Because if we’re not there, others who do not share our ideas will be.”

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (USGLC) hosted today’s foreign policy forum in the wake of the Administration’s latest budget proposal, which calls for a severe 30% cut to the State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID).

“Whether you’re a diplomat, a development worker, or a member of the Armed Forces, access to vital resources is paramount,” said Lt. Gen. Dennis McCarthy USMC (Ret.). “Just like members of our military, the men and women at the State Department and USAID need to know that they are equipped to handle the next crisis before it reaches our shores. When our civilian workers have the right tools, they keep Americans safe while freeing up our military for those battles that can only be won in combat.”

With over a million Ohio jobs tied to international trade, and Ohio’s exports to foreign markets totaling more than $50 billion a year, U.S. international engagement isn’t just a matter of national security. It’s a strategic economic issue for the Buckeye State.

A strong and growing coalition in the state, the USGLC’s Ohio Advisory Committee brings together nearly 130 business, faith, non-profit, veteran, and political leaders who understand why American global leadership matters for Ohio.

“Today, on International Peace Day, it was great to be back in Dayton with Rep. Mike Turner and community leaders who understand that American diplomacy and foreign assistance programs are essential to advance our economic and security interests and values around the world,” saidLiz Schrayer, President and CEO of the USGLC.

Also participating in today’s forum was Tara Hogan Charles, Associate Director of Government Relations and Public Policy at Procter & Gamble; Former Ohio Governor Bob Taft; and Cheryl Schrader, President of Wright State University.

The U.S. Global Leadership Coalition (www.usglc.org) is a broad-based influential network of 500 businesses and NGOs; national security and foreign policy experts; and business, faith-based, academic, military, and community leaders in all 50 states who support strategic investments to elevate development and diplomacy alongside defense in order to build a better, safer world.